Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus, can sometimes be a sign of a head injury. If you experience this symptom after a blow to the head, it is important to consider whether it might be related to a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Head injuries can cause internal damage that is not immediately visible but can affect brain function and sensory processing, including hearing.
To know if ringing in the ears is from a head injury, look for other symptoms that often accompany a TBI. These include feeling dazed, confused, or disoriented; difficulty remembering events before or after the injury; headaches or a feeling of pressure in the head; nausea or vomiting; dizziness or balance problems; blurred vision; and sensitivity to light or sound. Even a brief loss of consciousness or a dazed feeling can be a warning sign. If the ringing in your ears comes with any of these symptoms, it is more likely to be related to a head injury and requires prompt medical evaluation[1][3][4][7].
The ringing caused by a head injury may persist or worsen over time, especially if the injury leads to post-concussion syndrome. This syndrome can cause ongoing symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, irritability, memory and concentration problems, and sensitivity to noise, including tinnitus. If the ringing lasts more than a week or is accompanied by other neurological symptoms like slurred speech or weakness, it is important to seek medical care immediately[4][5][6].
It is also important to rule out other causes of tinnitus, such as ear infections, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or vascular issues. However, when tinnitus follows a head trauma, it is often linked to the injury’s impact on the auditory pathways or brain areas responsible for hearing. Medical professionals may use imaging tests and neurological exams to determine the extent of the injury and the cause of the tinnitus[2][6].
If you have ringing in your ears after a head injury, do not ignore it. Monitor for other symptoms like dizziness, nausea, difficulty speaking, or changes in vision or balance. These signs indicate that the brain may be affected and that you need immediate medical attention to prevent further complications[1][3][6].
Sources
https://www.rmlawcall.com/early-warning-signs-of-traumatic-brain-injury-after-a-mississippi-car-accident
https://www.nytmj.com/5-signs-your-tinnitus-may-be-linked-to-tmj/
https://www.thechampionfirm.com/blog/head-injury-severity-after-car-accident/
https://www.covaspineandpain.com/diagnosis/post-concussion-syndrome
https://www.concussionalliance.org/persisting-symptoms-after-concussion
https://www.connecthearing.ca/blog/tinnitus/when-should-you-see-a-doctor-about-tinnitus/
https://www.jrjlaw.com/blog/2025/november/traumatic-brain-injuries/
